My Dog Is Smarter Than Your Child. Really!

Bits and Bytes

According to studies gathered by canine researcher Stanley Coren, Ph.D., of the University of British Columbia, you might want to start thinking about sending your dog to pre-school.

At the American Psychological Association's 117th Annual Convention, Coren compared the intelligence of dogs to that of a human two-year-old. He claims that the average dog can learn up to 165 words and signals, while more intelligent dogs can learn up to 250. Coren states that dogs are also able to count up to the number five.

These findings are based on studies on canine behavior that show that the problem solving ability of dogs is more on par with humans and higher primates than previously thought. Says Coren, "Their stunning flashes of brilliance and creativity are reminders that they may not be Einsteins but are sure closer to humans than we thought."

While your dog still may not be of much accounting help during tax time, there is no longer a reason to underestimate Fido's intelligence.